Changes afoot on Sauvie Island?

With rising traffic congestion and conflicts among competing interests on Sauvie Island, the Multnomah County Planning Commission is urging the county Board of Commissioners to undertake a new plan for the rural community.

The planning commission and hired consultants have surveyed residents views on traffic congestion and related issues and will present their findings to county commissioners on Thursday at 9:45 a.m. The session, which will include public testimony, takes place at the Multnomah Building, 501 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.

Among the issues facing island residents and farmers:

 Concern about the impacts of promotional activities at farm stands, which attract throngs of visitors.

 Conflicts between those using the roads, including motorists, bicyclists and operators of farm equipment.

 The need for safety improvements.

 Concerns that the island is losing its rural and agricultural character.